Long Term vs Short Term Storage

Keeping your belongings safe and organised is one of the primary goals when hiring a self storage unit, but before hiring one, you may need to think about how and why you need to use it.

long term vs short term storage is something that you should think about, as both are often available at self storage companies and depending on your needs, you could save some money when choosing one over the other.

For that reason, we will go over the benefits of both so you can make an educated decision.

The difference between both storage types

The difference between the storage types is obviously the duration in which you will use the storage unit for.

Typically short term storage is used for a short period of a few weeks or a month and could be used for things like a house move, renovation, summer break or any other temporary needs.

Long term storage as the name suggests, is for people or business owners who need to store their items for extended periods of time, often for months or even a year.  Long term storage can be used when downsizing to a smaller home, or just needing more storage space in the home for furniture and other equipment.

Both types of storage are useful, it just depends on your individual needs.

Who Chooses Short Term Storage

Many people turn to short term storage when they need extra space at a time of change. For example, if you are moving house and need a safe place for your items between properties, or if you are renovating and need to keep your furniture out of the way for a few weeks.

Another use is student storage as they can rent a storage unit over the summer without the need to take all their belongings back home.

The benefit of short term storage is flexibility, as you can rent by the week or month, while still keeping your items safe.

Who Chooses Long Term Storage

Long term storage is good for those who need a secure storage space for a long period. This could be for families moving abroad, older relatives who are downsizing to a smaller home, or for those who simply ahave too much, maybe you have an avid antiques collection or you just want to keep fragile items safer rather than keeping them in your home.

Business owners also use long term storage for stock and specialised equipment. A storage unit can free up more space in your workspace which can help your business run smoother.

The cost savings is one of the biggest benefits of long term storage as it offers you better rates for renting a storage unit. An extended period of rental allows the facility to give you better rates than if you were renting for a week.

Things to consider

There are a few things to consider between long term vs short term storage.   Firstly think of the situations you will be using the storage for. If you are storing fragile items or antiques, do you really want to be storing them for a few weeks.

If you plan to keep your items for a long period, it often makes sense to commit to a longer contract and benefit from lower rates.

You should also consider locations. Having a storage facility close to your home or workplace saves time when you need to access your belongings, so pick one close.

Uses for Each Type of storage

Short term storage allows you to keep your furniture and other items the same during times where you may be renovating your house or simply for creating extra space when you declutter.

For long term storage a business owner will need ongoing storage space for their stock whereas a household that has downsized to a smaller home may need to store their furniture or belongings for the next few years.

Benefits of Both Types

Both long term storage and short term storage help free up valuable space at home, protect your belongings and provide a clean, secure environment.

The main benefit of short term storage is that its quick and flexible to usually a temporary situation.

Long term storage you get the benefit of knowing your items are safe for many months to come.

Whatever your needs you should use a reputable self storage company so that your items are safe from things like moisture or even criminals.

Tips for Making the Right Choice

You will need to think about what you are storing and how long you are going to store it for and be realistic with the times. If you are moving house or need to store furniture for a few weeks then a short contract could work.

However you may also need long term storage if you think moving home could take longer than a few weeks. An extended period could be needed if you are in a chain for example, in this case start thinking longer term as you could save money over time